CWI and Nampa discuss transfer of Ford Idaho Center to school

In an effort to continuing growing the venue and to develop workforce and learning opportunities, the City of Nampa and the College of Western Idaho have opened discussions about transferring a well-known property.

On July 2, the city and the school announced they are in talks to transfer operations of the Ford Idaho Center in Nampa to CWI. Though the deal is far from finalized, public meetings and approvals are being held to include the community in the decision.

The Ford Idaho Center, located north of Interstate 84 near the CWI campus, hosts everything from concerts and comedy to festivals and political rallies. Upcoming events include musicians ranging from country artist Warren Zeiders to parody artist “Weird Al” Yankovic. There is also an upcoming Wild Horse and Burro Show.

Nampa officials from the office of Mayor Debbie Kling stated that partnership between the city and the school would ensure that the Ford Center would remain “under public stewardship,” and create the ability to expand CWI’s educational and workforce programs while bringing in more commercial activity to spur economic development.

“This is a unique opportunity to begin a new chapter for this premier facility, building on the success of the Ford Idaho Center and taking it to the next level,” Kling said. “If approved, transferring this public asset to the College of Western Idaho would maximize the facility’s potential, enable it to continue hosting events, transform the surrounding area and expand workforce training opportunities to meet the needs of employers. The benefits of this transition could be felt for generations, making Nampa an even more vibrant place to live, work, play and grow.”

A town hall meeting for the community to discuss the potential transfer is being held July 15 from 4-6 p.m. at the center’s Les Schwab Corral near the horse park arena. Both Kling and CWI President Gordon Jones will be in attendance to answer questions.

There will also be a public hearing held Aug. 11 at 5:30 p.m. at the Nampa City Council chambers prior to a vote on the transfer. Both the city council and CWI’s board of trustees would need to approve the proposed transfer.

“We are deeply grateful to Mayor Kling and the Nampa City Council for considering this transformative opportunity,” Jones said. “The potential acquisition of the Ford Idaho Center would enable CWI to further serve and engage the community by creating more academic and hands-on learning opportunities for our students. We are excited about the possibilities this could bring to Nampa and the broader region as CWI continues to grow.”

More information can be found and public input can be given at the city website.